Hungarian Music Night Part 1 – Zoltán Kodály „Choral and Organ Music”, „Laudes Organi“

Hungarian Music Night Part 1: Zoltán Kodály (1882 – 1967) “Hungarian Choral and Organ Music”
Zoltán Kodály's „Laudes Organi – Praise of the Organ“ for choir and organ

Guidance
Soma Szabó

CHOR
Nyíregyházi Cantemus Choir

AT THE ORGAN
István Ella

With „Hungarian Music Night Part 1“ moves closer Zoltán Kodály as a composer of sacred vocal music. His work "Laudes Organi" for choir and organ combines sonic radiance, liturgical depth and that close connection of word, song and musical architecture which particularly characterises Kodály's work. Under the direction of Soma Szabó designs the Nyíregyházi Cantemus Choir among other things in their programme this impressive work with the stylistic sovereignty and density of expression for which Hungarian choral culture is widely appreciated. In dialogue with the organ, a concert of particular concentration and radiance unfolds, transforming Merseburg Cathedral into a space of intense musical and spiritual experience.

With Soma Szabó In Merseburg stands a conductor at the podium who has been significantly shaping Hungarian choral culture for many years. Artistic Director of the Nyíregyházi Cantemus Choir he is responsible for several ensembles within the traditional Cantemus choir family; simultaneously, he is also Associate Professor at the University of Nyíregyháza working. His training as a choir director was at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music Budapest; with his choirs, he won numerous first prizes and Grand Prix at international competitions. He was awarded, among other things, the Liszt Prize and with one Artisjus-Music Pedagogy Prize. For the concert in Merseburg, Soma Szabó will therefore not only bring great conducting experience but also an artistic affinity with the Kodály tradition, from which this music immediately stems.